Paradise lost and found

Bruno Saint-Cast would make happy all those he has loved and lost

What was your first job, and how did you get into IT?
My very first job after my MBA was for a construction company. I was responsible for selling their flats to French expats in Africa. After six months - and a couple of rather funny experiences - I decided it was not for me and accepted a job with IBM. This was my first role in IT and kickstarted my career.

Planes, trains or automobiles?
I'd have to say cars - particularly classic English sports cars like Jaguars and Aston Martins. When I was younger, cars were also my first step towards freedom.

What sport should be in the Olympics but isn't?
Water skiing. My father introduced me to the sport years ago, and it's exhilarating. It involves a lot of skill -- and balance!

Which fictional TV character is borrowing ideas from your life?
My friends used to say I remind them of Lord Brett Sinclair, played by Roger Moore, from the The Persuaders. I think it was my mannerisms, and my 70s haircut and clothes!

What was the best holiday you ever went on?
Definitely Venice. I went just before Christmas last year with my wife and three kids. Although it was cold and had snowed quite heavily, it was magical. It is a charming city with amazing sites like the Grand Canal and St. Mark's Square.

If you had a week to live, how would you fill it?
I would spend it with my family and close friends at home. I would also take participate in each of my kids' favourite activities.

I never…
... judge people. When I was younger, I used to make generalisations that I would never dream of now and I've learnt that you simply can't judge anyone before you know them.

What would your superpower be?
To make anyone happy, like it was infectious. It may not sound very exciting but really I prefer the simple things!

Will the economic recovery continue?
Yes, I believe the recovery will continue, although it will be a slow process. The recession has resulted in massive cuts everywhere, and high unemployment, so it will take some time but we have to stay positive and believe it will get better.

Do you use social media?
I mainly use LinkedIn for my business connections and I have many friends on Facebook on a personal level as well.

Print or online news?
It really depends on where I am, but it is mostly online so I can have immediate access to up-to-the-minute information at my convenience. I'm not a big fan of newspaper ink stains either!
In my dreams...
... is a paradise populated by people I love and people I've lost.

Bruno Saint-Cast is vice president for Europe at Tableau Software